Brachycephalic cats and dogs

Certain breeds of dogs and cats have a skull conformation described as brachycephalic. This is due to poor cartilage development of the base of the skull resulting in a snub nose appearance.

Temperature, humidity and stress (noise and movement) during carriage, combined with individual risk factors such as the animal’s temperament, age, and general state of health result, in an increased risk for brachycephalic breeds.

Air New Zealand Cargo will only permit some brachycephalic breeds (including cross breeds) to travel on single sector flights of five hours or less of flight time.

Brachycephalic breeds not accepted for travel on flights over five hours